Daniel Otera
The Nigerian Army has released the names of candidates shortlisted for the Short Service Combatant Commission Course 49/2026, confirming that the full list is now accessible on its recruitment portal.
The announcement, issued on Monday and signed by the Military Secretary (Army), stated that applicants who made the list are expected to report to the Nigerian Defence Academy, Ribadu Campus in Kaduna State, for the Selection Board exercise scheduled to begin on December 1, 2025.
According to the statement, “The shortlisted candidates are to report to the Nigerian Defence Academy Ribadu Campus (Old Site), Kaduna State on 1 December 2025.”
The Army further advised all candidates to be in Kaduna a day earlier. “Candidates are advised to be in Kaduna on 30 November 2025 and report to the Selection Board venue between 6am and 11am on 1 December 2025,” the statement added.
A strict arrival deadline was also highlighted as the Army warned that “candidates who arrive after 11am on 1 December 2025 will be automatically disqualified.”
The military listed several documents that each candidate must present for screening. The requirements include original and photocopies of academic and professional certificates, NYSC discharge or exemption certificate, birth certificate, certificate of state of origin, BVN printout, NIN slip and all completed forms downloaded from the Short Service portal.
Candidates are also expected to come along with:
Writing materials
Blue shorts
White T-shirts
White canvas shoes
Toiletries and personal items
Bedspread and blanket
Full-size coloured photographs
Scratch cards to verify WAEC or NECO results
Parents and guardians are required to provide a consent document endorsed in a recognised court. The directive noted that the letter must state that they will not demand compensation in the event of injury or death during the screening exercise.
The screening will cover document verification, physical and medical examinations, academic assessments and an oral interview. The Army stressed that any attempt to alter credentials will void the documents instantly.
Candidates will be accommodated and fed throughout the exercise but must handle their transportation to and from Kaduna. The use of private vehicles and visits from outsiders remain banned until the process is concluded.
The statement also underscored the level of discipline expected at the Selection Board. “Candidates who violate any instruction during the Selection Board will be disqualified,” it warned.
The Army added that the exercise, being military in nature, involves physical rigor. “Due to the military nature of the Exercise, the Nigerian Army shall not be liable for any injuries or deaths recorded in the course of the Selection Board,” it conclude.
